RV campgrounds near Watertown, New York offer camping experiences across diverse landscapes, from Lake Ontario shorelines to St. Lawrence River settings. The region experiences four distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 70-80°F and winter lows often below freezing. Area campgrounds stay open primarily from May through October, with most closing before the first heavy snowfall hits the region.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide direct lake access for anglers. At Bedford Creek Marina & Campground, visitors can launch boats directly from the property. "Wonderful staff, wonderful setting, just always have a wonderful time there," notes one camper.
Golfing excursions: Streamside RV Park & Golf Course combines camping with a 12-hole course surrounding the campground. "This is a privately owned very nice campground! The owners take pride in their business and the grounds are meticulously kept. Everyone here is a golfer," reports one visitor.
Water activities: Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular at waterfront campgrounds. One camper at Sun Outdoors Association Island shared: "We were able to drop our kayaks right in the water in front of our rig and paddle to our heart's content. The water is clear and cool."
What campers like
Waterfront views: Many campers praise the scenic waterfront settings. A guest at Ontario Shores RV Park noted, "A well kept quiet place. The seasonal campers are friendly. Lake Ontario a short walk away, the lake level flooding a few years ago ruined the sandy beach, but it's still a great view."
Island experience: The unique approach to Association Island impresses many visitors. "The approach by way of a single lane bridge to the island is beautiful. Once on the island, it's obvious that this is a great place for retreat. Surrounded by Lake Ontario, it's a secluded and idyllic setting for a RV campground," explained one camper.
Full hookup convenience: Concrete pads and complete hookups make setup easy at many parks. According to one visitor at Swan Bay Resort, "All of their sites are on slabs, neat and clean hook ups. There is riverviews from just about every site which is nice and then there are sites right on the river."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Strong winds can impact camping experiences, especially for those with awnings. At Swan Bay Resort, one seasonal camper mentioned "he lost three awnings to the wind. So, don't leave your awning out when you leave your camper and beware of winds if you want to be on the water."
Site differences: Pricing varies dramatically based on location within campgrounds. A visitor at Natural Bridge/Watertown KOA observed, "The sites are small, but there are mature trees between them & woodsy areas around the campsites. The campground is clean and well kept."
Seasonal differences: Many rv campgrounds Watertown, New York experience different atmospheres depending on when you visit. One camper noted about Swan Bay Resort: "We loved this park during the slow season and during the week when there were not kids running around and adults playing loud music and drinking constantly."
Tips for camping with families
Pool options: Multiple swimming options keep children entertained. A family staying at Brennan Beach Campground reported, "Spent 3 nights with our 2 sons and my husband's 2 granddaughters, all under age 12. Bathrooms/showers were clean. Very nice camp store, pools, playground, and restaurants."
Playground access: Quality play areas provide entertainment for younger campers. A visitor to Swan Bay Resort described, "The playground is awesome and huge with lots of cool features for kids to explore."
Off-site attractions: Local attractions complement the camping experience. "Mike told us about Salmon River Falls. We went and it is a must see while there. Basically 15 minutes from the campground," noted one camper at Brennan Beach about a nearby natural attraction.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Waterfront sites offer prime views but come with tradeoffs. According to a Sun Outdoors Association Island camper, "I definitely recommend the sunrise side. The sunset is of course beautiful but sunrise sites are much bigger and can lead right to the water which is much nicer. It's a lot less windy and easier to be in the water."
Grocery access: Several Watertown rv campgrounds offer convenient access to supplies. One visitor mentioned about Swan Bay Resort, "Within walking distance is a Price Chopper Grocery, Dollar General, gas station, and wine and liquor store."
Road access: Most major campgrounds have straightforward approach routes. A camper shared about Love's RV Hookup, "Access to the park is easy in and out off route 12 and well-marked," making it convenient for larger rigs traveling through the area.
